Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

Introduction

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort food that brings together juicy beef patties, rich brown gravy, and tender onions and mushrooms—all slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring the beef is tender and infused with the savory gravy.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Salisbury Steak was named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, a 19th-century physician who promoted a diet rich in minced beef for health benefits. Over time, this dish evolved into a beloved American comfort food, often served with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. The slow cooker version makes it even easier to enjoy this hearty, home-style meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients Quantity

(Makes 4-6 servings)

For the Salisbury Steaks:

  • 1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef
  • ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for browning, optional)

For the Gravy:

  • 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 cup (100g) mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme for extra flavor
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for depth in the gravy
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream for a creamy finish

Tips for Success

  1. Brown the patties before slow cooking – This locks in juices and enhances flavor.
  2. Use lean beef (80/20 or 85/15) – Too much fat can make the gravy greasy.
  3. Layer onions and mushrooms first – This prevents the steaks from sticking to the slow cooker.
  4. Adjust the thickness of the gravy – If too thin, add a cornstarch slurry; if too thick, add more beef broth.
  5. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours – This allows the flavors to fully develop and the meat to become tender.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steaks

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form into 4-6 oval-shaped patties.
  3. (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon oil, and brown patties for 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

  1. Place sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Lay the browned beef patties on top.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Pour over the steaks.

Step 3: Slow Cook

  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy

  1. In the last 30 minutes, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the gravy.
  2. Let it cook for another 30 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Serve the Salisbury steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and drizzle with extra gravy.

Description

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak delivers tender, juicy beef patties in a rich, savory brown gravy with onions and mushrooms. The slow cooking process ensures deep, comforting flavors, making it a perfect meal for a cozy dinner.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Sodium: ~800mg

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners. It’s a meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table with minimal prep time.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • Mashed potatoes (classic pairing)
  • Buttered egg noodles for a hearty meal
  • Roasted vegetables for a balanced plate
  • Garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a healthier version, you can:

  • Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for extra fiber.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and Worcestershire sauce.

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